Rural lawmakers hopes to jump from one senate seat to another (AUDIO)

A rural lawmaker wants to make the jump from state senator to United States senator.

State Senator Deb Fischer says a concern for the direction of the country motivated her to jump into the Republican primary for United States Senate.

“I’m a strong proponent of limit government,” Fischer tells Nebraska Radio Network. “I think government has certain core responsibilities and that’s what needs to be funded. It can’t be everything to everybody.”

Fischer grew up in Lincoln. She moved to Valentine after marriage, settling into life on a ranch. She represents a large, rural district in the state legislature.

Fischer says Democratic incumbent Senator Ben Nelson has disappointed many Nebraskans with his votes for national health care and the economic stimulus plan.

“He’s not representing the people in the state. That’s what I hear when I talk to Nebraskans,” Fischer says. “They’re ready for a change and have somebody represent them who is going to listen to their views. And I think I’m that person.”

Fischer acknowledges that raising money for the United States Senate race will be tough. She says her campaign has set a goal and says it is on track to meet it.